Good news sci-fi fans, Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part 2 is an explosive and expansive epic in every way! Yep, our skillful director has once again taken Frank Herbert’s ambitiously dense tale and adapted it into an awe-inspiring viewing experience for the ages. And for those wondering, yes, you definitely DO need to have seen the first installment before jumping into this one. That debut outing did a great job of setting the table and laying out this often-confounding world of sand, spice, and destiny in a comprehensive way. With all that heavy lifting done though, this follow-up film feels more straightforward in its narrative structure, allowing for an effortlessly enjoyable unravelling of action, wonder, and drama – not to mention romance. And at a little under 3 hours, everything has time breathe, giving this journey time to wash over you in all its sandy glory. And, like the first installment, it’s the visual splendor of this celestial world that impresses the most. The various colours and sounds are also expertly used. The cinematography is also astounding, showing the vastness and beauty on display ever so skillfully. It truly is a feat of filmmaking from all the behind-the-scenes craftsmen and women! As for the stars onscreen, there’s also no complaints. Timothée Chalamet gives Paul an impressive transformation by the end of the picture, while Rebecca Ferguson goes all in with her mystical read as Lady Jessica. But, there’s no question that Austin Butler is the cast MVP. Butler embodies baddie Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen so well, it becomes an instant classic villain portrayal. So yes, any way you look at it, Dune: Part 2 makes for the perfect sequel to Villeneuve’s already existing masterpiece. And, dare I say, it’s even spicier…I mean better!